07/10/03
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Richard Burke, born November 29, 1933, died on July 10, 2003 in Fort Lauderdale, FL. He was ordained for the Archdiocese of Chicago on May, 3, 1960. He served for twenty years in the active ministry. He left ministry in 1980 and married Patricia Baldwin on June 20, 1981. Both he and his wife taught at Cardinal Gibbons Catholic High School in Fort Lauderdale. He began in 1981 teaching Latin and Theology and was still teaching at the time of his death. Below is an article that appeared in the school newspaper.
FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS - By FRANCINE OBRIEN
Last year, if you were to walk around Cardinal Gibbons looking for examples of true Christians, chances are you would have found many. One man, however, would have stood out above the rest. Richard Burke taught Latin and Religion at Cardinal Gibbons High School for 22 years. He worked alongside his loving wife of 23 years, Patricia Burke. He was born on November 29, 1933 in Chicago, Illinois, and passed away suddenly on July 10, 2003.
"He was an intelligent scholar, dedicated teacher, devoted husband, tremendous colleague and wonderful friend," said Mrs. Serafini on behalf of the Foreign Language Department. "Many people walk in and out of our lives... only a few leave footprints in our hearts, and we are never the same. Richard Burke left footprints in many hearts," said Mrs. Hanke when asked about her feelings. Mr. Burke exemplified the Catholic faith. His former students describe him as a positive role model who conducted his classes with enthusiasm, humor and fairness. He challenged each person to reach his or her fullest potential. Faculty members and staff will miss his sweet smile, great wit, genuine compassion and willingness to always lend a hand.
His unwavering faith could be seen by all as he attended Mass daily. He made everyone's life just a little bit better. The Cardinal Gibbons family is eternally grateful for all that he did.. .and all that he was. He lives on in the hearts of all who knew him. It is difficult to understand why God chose to take Mr, Burke from us, but it is clear that he is with God. "For God so loved the world that He gave us His only be¬gotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." - John 3:16. Magister erat optimus; requiescat in pace (He was the best teacher; may he rest in peace).